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Passau Saint Michael's Church 
St. Michael’s Church, also known as the Jesuit Church, was built between 1665 and 1678 a period of significant religious and political change in Europe. The church served not only as a place of worship but also as a centre for education and missionary work as it was part of the Jesuit College, which later became the Leopoldinum School, and to which the church is attached. The Jesuits were known for their educational institutions, and the church played a crucial role in their mission to educate and spread Catholic teachings. St. Michael’s Church is constructed in the Baroque architectural style which is characterized by its grandeur, dramatic use of light and shadow, and elaborate decorations. The Façade and all the exterior of the church is relatively plain, due to the wishes of the bishop at the time of its construction, to avoid overshadowing the nearby St. Stephen's Cathedral. However, it still maintains the Baroque style with its balanced proportions and classical elements. The white interior is a beautiful example of Baroque style with a single nave and barrel-vaulted ceiling.  Along the sides of the nave, set between the pilasters in arched alcoves richly adorned with intricate stucco work and depicting various religious themes and motifs, are the black and gold side alters.  These are decorated with sculptures and paintings which were completed by the local artists, Johann Seitz and Matthias Högenwald in 1678.   The font, made of marble, is intricately decorated and is a notable feature. It reflects the Baroque style that emphasises grandeur and detailed ornamentation.  The church also houses notable paintings and sculptures by artists of the Baroque period. Large statues of angels are the work of Diego Francesco Carlone with stucco by Ignaz Albrecht Provisore. At the far end is the High Altar with its elaborate design and religious iconography. Designed in 1712 by Father Christoph Tausch, a Jesuit architect from Breslau. Looking over it is the 1714 painting of the fallen angel by Carlo Innocenzo Carlone.   To the side of the Chancel is the pulpit completed in 1715 by Jospeph Matthias Götz. The church’s organ is known for its beautiful sound and craftsmanship, its casing being carved in 1715 by Joseph Hartmann. It has been used for numerous concerts and religious services over the centuries.
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All Photographs were taken by and are copyright of Ron Gatepain
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